Can safety and advocacy transform the towing industry? Join me, DJ Harrington, and my esteemed co-host Wes Wilburn, as we unravel the complexities of pressing issues facing our industry today. We start with a heavy heart, discussing the tragic death of Spencer Keegan and the subsequent lenient sentencing of Peyton Ferris. This poignant discussion underscores the significance of advocacy, exemplified by the Towing and Recovery Association of America's victory in exempting our industry from the FTC's junk fee rule.

Ron Moore, a returning guest offers great insight on training
Our journey continues with a focus on pivotal policy changes impacting our industry. We encourage you to gear up for the TRA Legislative Action Workshop and Hill Day, where the power to influence Congress is in your hands. Stay informed about Paccar's significant recall affecting Peterbilt and Kenworth trucks. We also shed light on the struggles faced by Connecticut towing operators over insurance issues and how diesel truck sales legislation in states like California, Massachusetts, and New Jersey may reshape the industry landscape.

Together, we explore the growing importance of interdisciplinary training in emergency response. From electric vehicles to complex accident scenarios, our recent joint training session in South Carolina highlights the necessity of realistic drills for fire rescue and towing operations. With exciting plans for 2025, including a revamped alternate fuel program and a new podcast schedule, we express heartfelt gratitude to our audience of over 16,000 listeners. Join us in welcoming the new year with optimism and commitment to excellence in towing and recovery.

Caught up in an unexpected airport strike, I embarked on a wild road trip to Cleveland for a towing training class, battling through delays and a treacherous snowstorm. On the return journey, a wrong-way driver almost cut my life short, a stark reminder of life's fragility and the importance of cherishing every moment. These personal trials set the stage for examining how unpredictability and danger are just part of the towing industry's daily grind.

The episode takes a serious turn as we scrutinize the pressing issues within the towing world. From a tragic accident in Michigan to questionable billing practices in both Georgia and Canada, the stories illustrate the urgent need for regulatory reforms and community support. Toronto's tow truck drivers face illegal taxing and violence, painting a grim picture of the challenges that demand immediate solutions. This conversation underscores the critical need for improved safety measures and fair regulations to protect those working tirelessly on the road.

We are thrilled to feature Joey Gagne, president of Abrams Towing and the Canadian Towing Association, who shares his remarkable journey from a single truck to a fleet of 200. Joey provides invaluable insights into the industry's evolving landscape and how new regulations in Ontario are shaping fairer practices. The discussion rounds out with a focus on empowering tow companies through standardized training and flexible approaches, paving the way for success in this ever-changing field. Tune in to learn how the towing industry is striving toward a safer and more equitable future.

Discover the unsung heroes of the towing and recovery industry with us, as we shine a light on their relentless dedication to safety, education, and community service. Join DJ Harrington and towing veteran Wes Wilburn, boasting over four decades of experience, as we recount heartwarming Thanksgiving tales and salute those who keep our roads safe, even in the harshest conditions like the recent snowfall in New York and Pennsylvania. From navigating the treacherous winter weather to ensuring rest and safety for workers, our conversation underscores the crucial yet often overlooked contributions these professionals make, especially during emergencies.

Our journey continues with a focus on the inspiring initiatives within the industry aimed at supporting veterans and bolstering community development. We delve into the collaborative efforts such as those by Ina Towing and the American Towing and Recovery Institute, which are transforming old hotels into homes for veterans and providing essential transportation solutions. The episode also grapples with pressing regulatory challenges and safety issues, examining the complex landscape of private property towing and emphasizing the need for self-defense training in encounters like the one in Phoenix. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the industry's unwavering commitment to service, advocacy, and safety.